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Cedar Rapids Raccoons #2
Pulling the Goalie
Can the girl who hides in the shadows date a guy who chases the spotlight?
Eloise:
Ares de la Peña: VIP hockey goalie, stripper, bisexual playboy.
He lives for the limelight. He’s everything I should avoid, yet I’m drawn to him in ways I don’t understand. As our worlds collide, I discover he’s more than just the flashy heir to a billion dollar fortune. I’ll never fit into his world. But I want to.
Ares:
What is it about this girl? She hides her scars behind her bright hair, quirky clothing, and striking lipstick, but I see her. She’s the calm that quiets my demons, while running from her own. My reputation precedes me, which is usually a good thing, but in this case her preconceived notions about me aren’t working in my favor.
How can I make her see that what we have is far more than skin deep?
Eloise:
Ares de la Peña: VIP hockey goalie, stripper, bisexual playboy.
He lives for the limelight. He’s everything I should avoid, yet I’m drawn to him in ways I don’t understand. As our worlds collide, I discover he’s more than just the flashy heir to a billion dollar fortune. I’ll never fit into his world. But I want to.
Ares:
What is it about this girl? She hides her scars behind her bright hair, quirky clothing, and striking lipstick, but I see her. She’s the calm that quiets my demons, while running from her own. My reputation precedes me, which is usually a good thing, but in this case her preconceived notions about me aren’t working in my favor.
How can I make her see that what we have is far more than skin deep?
408 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2023
146 people are currently reading
4688 people want to read
About the author
Lasairiona E. McMaster
54 books852 followersLasairiona McMaster writes sassy, classy and badassy women and strong, yet vulnerable men.
She challenges reader’s expectations by openly dealing with mental health issues, often exploring tough-to-handle topics and ‘taboos’ and books with a whole lotta heart.
She can either be found enjoying a gin and lemonade by the Irish sea, or baking sweet treats in her kitchen while singing at the top of her lungs.
When she’s ‘home’ in Texas, and isn’t eating fresh-popped popcorn while buying things she has absolutely no need for in Target, she can be found at Chuys eating her body weight in chips and queso and washing it down with a margarita swirl.
She challenges reader’s expectations by openly dealing with mental health issues, often exploring tough-to-handle topics and ‘taboos’ and books with a whole lotta heart.
She can either be found enjoying a gin and lemonade by the Irish sea, or baking sweet treats in her kitchen while singing at the top of her lungs.
When she’s ‘home’ in Texas, and isn’t eating fresh-popped popcorn while buying things she has absolutely no need for in Target, she can be found at Chuys eating her body weight in chips and queso and washing it down with a margarita swirl.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
May 16, 2023
Even after book 1 in this series fell flat for me, I was willing to give the second one a chance. Just because one doesn’t work for me, doesn’t mean another won’t. I can say now that I’ll never read another book by this author.
I struggled with this book a lot. I wasn’t even sure that I’d really finish it. I’m not a quitter though!
I’ve discovered a new “ick” thanks to this one. It’s the “ick” factor when one author takes “inspiration” from other authors' books for their own. This wasn’t even just an inspiration for a small thing like a business name or city. This was a whole list of things that blew my mind.
When I read book 1 I thought that a few things were odd but put it down to the fact that sometimes names or ideas will show up in more than one book. I’m not oblivious to that. Usually, it doesn’t bother me. As I was reading this book, I noticed things that seemed familiar. So I went back to double-check the books. When I did that, they certainly do not read as a coincidence. Let me run down the list of comparisons for you.
It’s in my opinion McMaster’s book has many similarities to 2 authors' books.
The first one is Pippa Grant’s Copper Valley Thrusters series.
PG - Twin hockey players named after Greek gods - Zeus and Ares (position on the teams are enforcers)
LM - her Cedar Rapids Racoon series - Twin hockey players named for Greek gods - Apollo and Artemis (position on the teams are enforcers)
PG - Book 3 main character is Ares
LM - Book 2 main character is Ares
PG - Ares hates interviews
LM - Ares hates interviews
PG - Ares has a pet monkey
LM - Ares has a pet pig
PG - Felicity (the h) has an overbearing and overprotective brother.
LM - Ares has an overbearing and overprotective sister
PG - Felicity is finishing up a study in the medical field - PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant)
LM - Eloise is studying to be a nurse
PG - Ares was treated dumb his entire life. He questions his intelligence often. Refers to himself as lacking intelligence many times. He doesn’t think a smart girl like Felicity would want him.
LM - Ares has been treated like he is dumb. Often refers to the fact he has a lack of intelligence. Even a reference to his family members thought he may not make it through college. He doesn’t think a smart girl like Eloise would want to be with him.
PG - Felicity is super smart, genius level.
LM - Eloise is super smart. Her school history is littered with academic success stories.
PG - Ares has surgery as a kid to have tubes put into his ears due to a serious health issue.
LM - Artemis had a cleft palate as a child and had surgery to fix it.
PG- Ares and Felicity use monkey as a euphemism for his junk (since he has a pet monkey)
LM - Ares and Eloise use pig as a euphemism for his junk (since he has a pet pig)
PG - References to Ares’ name and being the god of war.
LM - References to Ares’ name and being the god of war. As well as his sister is the goddess of war.
The second set of books comes from L. Ann’s Forgotten Legacy series.
From Exquisite Scars (book 4)
LA - Everleigh (h) was in a car accident with her parents at age 12, resulting in the death of her father. This leaves her with scars and many surgeries.
LM - Eloise was in a car accident with her parents at age 16, resulting in the death of her mother. This leaves her with scars and many surgeries.
LA - Everleigh has scars on the left side of her face. A scar runs from her ear, across her cheek, and down to her jaw. Scars on her arm, hip, leg, and chest.
LM - Eloise has scars on the right side of her face. From the ear, above the cheekbone, down her jawline.
LA - Luca’s (H) has someone find out more about Everleigh and the accident is part of the information
LM - Ares Googles Eloise and finds out about her accident.
LA - Luca and Everlight have an intimate moment in front of a mirror, making her look at her scars to see the beauty in them.
LM - Ares and Eloise have an intimate moment in front of a mirror, making her look at her scars to see the beauty in them. Almost caught by someone.
LA - Luca and Everleigh have an intimate moment in the library.
LM - Ares and Eloise have an intimate moment in the library.
LA - Everleigh has an overbearing, rude, and cruel grandmother.
LM - Eloise has an overbearing and rude father who tries to dictate her life.
From Neglected Consequences (Book 6)
LA - Gabe (H) is confronted by Tate who is 17. Gabe thinks he’s a fan and offers an autograph. Tate then tells him he’s his half-brother. Gabe dismisses him after a confrontation. Harper (h) sees that Tate looks like a younger Gabe.
LM - Ares is confronted by Thiago who is 16. Ares thinks he’s a fan and offers an autograph. Thiago tells him he’s his half-brother. Eloise sees that Thiago looks like Ares, making the connection. (Later his siblings as well)
When you take away the comparisons, I still found the story very lacking and weak. The angle of him leaving her hot cocoa in various locations she frequented or in her car was rather lame. It doesn’t really go anywhere. Why isn’t she questioning where they come from? How does she not find this worrisome? Then the way it was just thrown in there in a text conversation was weak and glossed over. Not to mention the way the conflict with her father just suddenly changed and he was “ok” with things rubbed me the wrong way. It was glossed over and pushed aside. Much like the adoption conflict in Book 1.
I don’t usually leave long and drawn-out reviews like this. But this was something that had to be pointed out. This author took way too many liberties and changed them just enough to have them be considered “inspiration”. For those who have read all of these books, would they see the very same things? I think so. At the very least, they will now.
I struggled with this book a lot. I wasn’t even sure that I’d really finish it. I’m not a quitter though!
I’ve discovered a new “ick” thanks to this one. It’s the “ick” factor when one author takes “inspiration” from other authors' books for their own. This wasn’t even just an inspiration for a small thing like a business name or city. This was a whole list of things that blew my mind.
When I read book 1 I thought that a few things were odd but put it down to the fact that sometimes names or ideas will show up in more than one book. I’m not oblivious to that. Usually, it doesn’t bother me. As I was reading this book, I noticed things that seemed familiar. So I went back to double-check the books. When I did that, they certainly do not read as a coincidence. Let me run down the list of comparisons for you.
It’s in my opinion McMaster’s book has many similarities to 2 authors' books.
The first one is Pippa Grant’s Copper Valley Thrusters series.
PG - Twin hockey players named after Greek gods - Zeus and Ares (position on the teams are enforcers)
LM - her Cedar Rapids Racoon series - Twin hockey players named for Greek gods - Apollo and Artemis (position on the teams are enforcers)
PG - Book 3 main character is Ares
LM - Book 2 main character is Ares
PG - Ares hates interviews
LM - Ares hates interviews
PG - Ares has a pet monkey
LM - Ares has a pet pig
PG - Felicity (the h) has an overbearing and overprotective brother.
LM - Ares has an overbearing and overprotective sister
PG - Felicity is finishing up a study in the medical field - PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant)
LM - Eloise is studying to be a nurse
PG - Ares was treated dumb his entire life. He questions his intelligence often. Refers to himself as lacking intelligence many times. He doesn’t think a smart girl like Felicity would want him.
LM - Ares has been treated like he is dumb. Often refers to the fact he has a lack of intelligence. Even a reference to his family members thought he may not make it through college. He doesn’t think a smart girl like Eloise would want to be with him.
PG - Felicity is super smart, genius level.
LM - Eloise is super smart. Her school history is littered with academic success stories.
PG - Ares has surgery as a kid to have tubes put into his ears due to a serious health issue.
LM - Artemis had a cleft palate as a child and had surgery to fix it.
PG- Ares and Felicity use monkey as a euphemism for his junk (since he has a pet monkey)
LM - Ares and Eloise use pig as a euphemism for his junk (since he has a pet pig)
PG - References to Ares’ name and being the god of war.
LM - References to Ares’ name and being the god of war. As well as his sister is the goddess of war.
The second set of books comes from L. Ann’s Forgotten Legacy series.
From Exquisite Scars (book 4)
LA - Everleigh (h) was in a car accident with her parents at age 12, resulting in the death of her father. This leaves her with scars and many surgeries.
LM - Eloise was in a car accident with her parents at age 16, resulting in the death of her mother. This leaves her with scars and many surgeries.
LA - Everleigh has scars on the left side of her face. A scar runs from her ear, across her cheek, and down to her jaw. Scars on her arm, hip, leg, and chest.
LM - Eloise has scars on the right side of her face. From the ear, above the cheekbone, down her jawline.
LA - Luca’s (H) has someone find out more about Everleigh and the accident is part of the information
LM - Ares Googles Eloise and finds out about her accident.
LA - Luca and Everlight have an intimate moment in front of a mirror, making her look at her scars to see the beauty in them.
LM - Ares and Eloise have an intimate moment in front of a mirror, making her look at her scars to see the beauty in them. Almost caught by someone.
LA - Luca and Everleigh have an intimate moment in the library.
LM - Ares and Eloise have an intimate moment in the library.
LA - Everleigh has an overbearing, rude, and cruel grandmother.
LM - Eloise has an overbearing and rude father who tries to dictate her life.
From Neglected Consequences (Book 6)
LA - Gabe (H) is confronted by Tate who is 17. Gabe thinks he’s a fan and offers an autograph. Tate then tells him he’s his half-brother. Gabe dismisses him after a confrontation. Harper (h) sees that Tate looks like a younger Gabe.
LM - Ares is confronted by Thiago who is 16. Ares thinks he’s a fan and offers an autograph. Thiago tells him he’s his half-brother. Eloise sees that Thiago looks like Ares, making the connection. (Later his siblings as well)
When you take away the comparisons, I still found the story very lacking and weak. The angle of him leaving her hot cocoa in various locations she frequented or in her car was rather lame. It doesn’t really go anywhere. Why isn’t she questioning where they come from? How does she not find this worrisome? Then the way it was just thrown in there in a text conversation was weak and glossed over. Not to mention the way the conflict with her father just suddenly changed and he was “ok” with things rubbed me the wrong way. It was glossed over and pushed aside. Much like the adoption conflict in Book 1.
I don’t usually leave long and drawn-out reviews like this. But this was something that had to be pointed out. This author took way too many liberties and changed them just enough to have them be considered “inspiration”. For those who have read all of these books, would they see the very same things? I think so. At the very least, they will now.
May 6, 2023
Ares, oh Ares 😍 This guy is just *chefs kiss* He is my most favourite guy that Las has written. He puts on this front so the outside world see one thing but underneath he is so vulnerable. Eloise gets to see his vulnerable side and I just love these two together. Ares is a recovering addict and also a stripper that plays hockey. And he's still only young. You're probably thinking whatttttttt!?!? But it works and Ares wouldn't be Ares without all that. There is that saying, "you should never judge a book by its cover". That is true for everything in life. Ares is an example of that. He's gone through so much that some peoole don't go through in a lifetime.
Eloise was in a car accident that killed her mum and she had some serious injuries from. She finds it hard as she has scars on her face but Ares sees past those. He helps Eloise feel confident in herself and helps her blossom. She is so shy when she first meets him and turns into a confident woman by the end of the book. Again, I love these two together. OMG there are so many funny moments but I love how the cat takes his man bits hostage 😂😂 Honestly I laughed so much at these two they had so many funny moments in the book.
Also can I just say how refreshing it is that most of the time Las has MMC's that have "normal size peens" and they aren't hung like a horse. It's not how big you are but what you do with it that counts 😉 Ares certainly knows what to do with his 😉 Las where can I get me an Ares? Asking for a friend 😬
By far my favourite of the series and dare I say overtake my favourites form the Snow Pirates series 🫣🤭 *please don't tell them that I still love them all!!!! *
Eloise was in a car accident that killed her mum and she had some serious injuries from. She finds it hard as she has scars on her face but Ares sees past those. He helps Eloise feel confident in herself and helps her blossom. She is so shy when she first meets him and turns into a confident woman by the end of the book. Again, I love these two together. OMG there are so many funny moments but I love how the cat takes his man bits hostage 😂😂 Honestly I laughed so much at these two they had so many funny moments in the book.
Also can I just say how refreshing it is that most of the time Las has MMC's that have "normal size peens" and they aren't hung like a horse. It's not how big you are but what you do with it that counts 😉 Ares certainly knows what to do with his 😉 Las where can I get me an Ares? Asking for a friend 😬
By far my favourite of the series and dare I say overtake my favourites form the Snow Pirates series 🫣🤭 *please don't tell them that I still love them all!!!! *
May 11, 2023
I know I’m reading a good book when I get butterflies in my stomach, not the nervous kind. That’s exactly what this book gave me. If you’ve not read any of Lasairiona McMaster’s hockey books and are a fan of the subgenre/trope you are missing out.
I can’t even explain how much I enjoyed this opposites attract, good girl/bad boy hockey romance.
Ares is a complex character who touched my heart. He’s a freshman hockey goalie, recovering drug addict, and stripper. I’m blown away by the complexity of his character. From the outside, he’s confident and not afraid to be seen, but deep down he’s fighting some internal battles and vulnerability. I love the way his confidence and don’t care attitude was portrayed at the beginning of the book. It was such a great representation of the facade everyone sees. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t so sure about him. Boy, did he grow on me…and quickly. Did I mention he has a Jacob’s Ladder and is bi-sexual, oh yeah, there is one MM scene before Eloise.
Eloise is the typical good girl who likes to stay hidden. She’s shy, introverted, and hiding internal and external scars. When she was in high school she lost her mom in a car accident and had to undergo surgery which left her face scarred. A past relationship made her feel bad about her appearance. Everything changes when Ares notices her, and boy does he notice her. I loved watching her entire life change with Ares, and her self-appointed extroverted best friend, Tori. Eloise is the person you see yourself or as your best friend. She’s witty and has a sharp tongue, sweet, caring, and knows nothing about hockey…which I loved.
The character development, plot development, and spice are well-written. Nothing is rushed but still moves along at a fast pace, hooking me from the start and keeping me. There is a perfect mix of emotion, fantastic banter, and the greatest found family group out there. Oh yeah, there is no third-act break-up and an adorable pet pig and cat. One scene with the cat will forever make me laugh.
Ares and Eloise deserved every bit of their HEA. This is book 2 in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series, a Snow Pirates spin-off. It can be read as a standalone but ends with a cliffhanger for the next book. Trust me, you need to experience all of her books.
I will happily dream of Ares as I anxiously count down to books 3 and 4.
I can’t even explain how much I enjoyed this opposites attract, good girl/bad boy hockey romance.
Ares is a complex character who touched my heart. He’s a freshman hockey goalie, recovering drug addict, and stripper. I’m blown away by the complexity of his character. From the outside, he’s confident and not afraid to be seen, but deep down he’s fighting some internal battles and vulnerability. I love the way his confidence and don’t care attitude was portrayed at the beginning of the book. It was such a great representation of the facade everyone sees. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t so sure about him. Boy, did he grow on me…and quickly. Did I mention he has a Jacob’s Ladder and is bi-sexual, oh yeah, there is one MM scene before Eloise.
Eloise is the typical good girl who likes to stay hidden. She’s shy, introverted, and hiding internal and external scars. When she was in high school she lost her mom in a car accident and had to undergo surgery which left her face scarred. A past relationship made her feel bad about her appearance. Everything changes when Ares notices her, and boy does he notice her. I loved watching her entire life change with Ares, and her self-appointed extroverted best friend, Tori. Eloise is the person you see yourself or as your best friend. She’s witty and has a sharp tongue, sweet, caring, and knows nothing about hockey…which I loved.
The character development, plot development, and spice are well-written. Nothing is rushed but still moves along at a fast pace, hooking me from the start and keeping me. There is a perfect mix of emotion, fantastic banter, and the greatest found family group out there. Oh yeah, there is no third-act break-up and an adorable pet pig and cat. One scene with the cat will forever make me laugh.
Ares and Eloise deserved every bit of their HEA. This is book 2 in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series, a Snow Pirates spin-off. It can be read as a standalone but ends with a cliffhanger for the next book. Trust me, you need to experience all of her books.
I will happily dream of Ares as I anxiously count down to books 3 and 4.
May 11, 2023
Firstly…can I just mention that ending!!! Argh! Seriously Ms McMaster!!
Anyway, Ares and Eloise, what a beautiful couple. I loved them both. Ares with his playboy, happy go lucky charm and Elle with her gentle heart and unwavering strength.
For such young people they have had quite the journey. Traumatic and life changing, every day is a challenge for them both as they face their demons and pain but still fight to be the best version of themselves.
The kindness in Ares heart is so lovely to read as we get to know the boy underneath the swagger. Elle is exactly the kind of person he needs to keep him grounded and strong.
His unwavering affection and affirmation of her beauty and worth is the kind of support introverted Eloise needs to build her up and help her fly.
I just loved this pair and everything about their story. The honesty and trust was refreshing with no unnecessary drama. Oh and the spice was just right!!😏
Can’t wait to meet the rest of this family and team.
Anyway, Ares and Eloise, what a beautiful couple. I loved them both. Ares with his playboy, happy go lucky charm and Elle with her gentle heart and unwavering strength.
For such young people they have had quite the journey. Traumatic and life changing, every day is a challenge for them both as they face their demons and pain but still fight to be the best version of themselves.
The kindness in Ares heart is so lovely to read as we get to know the boy underneath the swagger. Elle is exactly the kind of person he needs to keep him grounded and strong.
His unwavering affection and affirmation of her beauty and worth is the kind of support introverted Eloise needs to build her up and help her fly.
I just loved this pair and everything about their story. The honesty and trust was refreshing with no unnecessary drama. Oh and the spice was just right!!😏
Can’t wait to meet the rest of this family and team.
May 5, 2023
Pulling the goalie is the second book in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series.
Ares de la Peña is the youngest of clan. He is a very complex character. He has so many layers to him. Not only is he a hockey player, he’s also a stripper who loves to dance. Ares has a very hard past and trying to overcome it. I love his personality and how comfortable he is in his own skin.
Eloise lives in the shadows. Has addiction for hot chocolate and trying her hardest to making friends. Which isn’t easy since she loves being on her own. It’s great to see when she lets her walls down slowly.
When you put this two together who are so different. It makes sense, Ares brings out the best in her. Doesn’t let hide from her scars and shows her how beautiful she is. Eloise is his anchor makes him a better man. I just loved this story so much. This story had so many layers and watching it unfold beautifully. I can’t wait to see what happens next after that cliffhanger.
Arc provided for honest review.
Ares de la Peña is the youngest of clan. He is a very complex character. He has so many layers to him. Not only is he a hockey player, he’s also a stripper who loves to dance. Ares has a very hard past and trying to overcome it. I love his personality and how comfortable he is in his own skin.
Eloise lives in the shadows. Has addiction for hot chocolate and trying her hardest to making friends. Which isn’t easy since she loves being on her own. It’s great to see when she lets her walls down slowly.
When you put this two together who are so different. It makes sense, Ares brings out the best in her. Doesn’t let hide from her scars and shows her how beautiful she is. Eloise is his anchor makes him a better man. I just loved this story so much. This story had so many layers and watching it unfold beautifully. I can’t wait to see what happens next after that cliffhanger.
Arc provided for honest review.
May 12, 2023
Lasairiona McMaster always makes me feel a kaleidoscope of emotions when I read her books and Pulling the Goalie was no different. One moment I was in tears and the next I was squealing in excitement. But there’s always that undertone of happiness I feel whenever I read one of her novels.
I absolutely adored Eloise and Ares! I loved that they both truly saw each other and allowed themselves to be vulnerable with each other. Also the spice was off the charts with these two! And there was a sweetness to their relationship that I loved, especially from Ares. There was so many more layers to him than what I was expecting which was a pleasant surprise.
Along with adoring Ares, I loved the rest of the de la Peña siblings as well. It was so fun getting to know them and seeing how they brought Eloise into the fold without question. I can’t wait to read each of their books!
This was an amazing edition to a series that is quickly becoming one of my favorites!
I absolutely adored Eloise and Ares! I loved that they both truly saw each other and allowed themselves to be vulnerable with each other. Also the spice was off the charts with these two! And there was a sweetness to their relationship that I loved, especially from Ares. There was so many more layers to him than what I was expecting which was a pleasant surprise.
Along with adoring Ares, I loved the rest of the de la Peña siblings as well. It was so fun getting to know them and seeing how they brought Eloise into the fold without question. I can’t wait to read each of their books!
This was an amazing edition to a series that is quickly becoming one of my favorites!
May 20, 2023
She does it again. I received this as an ARC copy. And boy am I glad. Lasairiona never fails to write a book that I don’t want to put down. I thought I would struggle with Ares as a god like, hot shot, stripper. Yes he is all those things but that’s not all he is. The layers to him are visible to see like a perfectly made lasagne. And Tesoro? Oh my heart. I love her. I felt the pride of mama and the unwavering acceptance of Tori. For some of us the scars are on the inside but we still fear they can be seen as clear as those on her face. Reading this makes you accept those scars because they are part of what makes you who you are today. Thank you Las.
May 6, 2023
Oh Ares.. you are everything you could ever want to to be and a whole world more.
Your immediate reaction is to be the brave, cocky playboy.. but underneath you're just a man who needs to feel enough, just like the rest of us.
Eloise, she's never had a place where she belonged. She was always on the outside but that all changed when she met the playboy with a past he wasn't proud of.
These two fit together like puzzle pieces. He's the storm to her calm and she's his anchor when he needs her.
This book won't leave you disappointed but I guarantee you won't be ready for it to be over when it is.
BRB while I find a way to make this family adopt me.
🖤🤍🖤🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Your immediate reaction is to be the brave, cocky playboy.. but underneath you're just a man who needs to feel enough, just like the rest of us.
Eloise, she's never had a place where she belonged. She was always on the outside but that all changed when she met the playboy with a past he wasn't proud of.
These two fit together like puzzle pieces. He's the storm to her calm and she's his anchor when he needs her.
This book won't leave you disappointed but I guarantee you won't be ready for it to be over when it is.
BRB while I find a way to make this family adopt me.
🖤🤍🖤🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 11, 2023
This book y’all!!! So fucking good🥰
Ares de la peña is the youngest of four siblings and has been trough a lot in his life! But at the moment he’s a recovering addict who plays hockey and he is also a stripper! Yes you read all that correctly😉
Eloise is a girl who lost her mum in a car crash! She was in the car, but survived with a lot of trauma and scars! At her new college she has problems making new friends, but also likes to be by herself!
They are polar opposite, but somehow they just fit!
I loved Ares and Eloise. Their character’s are so different, but so perfect for each other! Loved how they came together and that it never was any unnecessary drama between them in the book! It felt so realistic to their character’s! Ares is now welcomed into my book boyfriend club!
The writing was just out of this word! And I feel like nobody writes men like Lasairiona! She just nails them every time😎
*got an arc for an honest review*
Ares de la peña is the youngest of four siblings and has been trough a lot in his life! But at the moment he’s a recovering addict who plays hockey and he is also a stripper! Yes you read all that correctly😉
Eloise is a girl who lost her mum in a car crash! She was in the car, but survived with a lot of trauma and scars! At her new college she has problems making new friends, but also likes to be by herself!
They are polar opposite, but somehow they just fit!
I loved Ares and Eloise. Their character’s are so different, but so perfect for each other! Loved how they came together and that it never was any unnecessary drama between them in the book! It felt so realistic to their character’s! Ares is now welcomed into my book boyfriend club!
The writing was just out of this word! And I feel like nobody writes men like Lasairiona! She just nails them every time😎
*got an arc for an honest review*
May 11, 2023
One thing I love is a good hockey romance. Lasairiona is amazing with her stories. This book is about Ares de la Peña. He is a bad boy to the t but is trying to turn his life around. Eloise is trying to figure out life after an accident left her with scars. This book they way they help ground each other is amazing. This book was so good I couldn't put it down. I'm loving the Cedar Rapids Raccoons. I can't wait for the next book.
May 6, 2023
I want more more and more of Ares and Eloise. They are soooo cute together!! I laughed so much and snorted too. Hahaha. I had an amazing time reading this and picturing Abuelita. The Thanksgiving dinner scene is spectacular!!! Gotta love mixed languages speakers 🙋🏼♀️🙋🏼♀️. And what about that bonus epilogue?!?! 🥵🔥🥵 I have anxiety for the next book already!!! Tks Lasairiona for the review copy!!! 😘
May 8, 2023
A big thanks to Las for the eARC!
4.5⭐
Okay Ares is more my type than I thought he would be going into this and oh wow, he might be my favourite Raccoon boy yet! I could really relate to Eloise and the cute/slightly awkward romance was just wonderful. I will never not smile seeing a hot chocolate packet again *swoon* 🥰
Also, so not over the ending and waiting not-at-all patiently for book 3!! 🫣😁
4.5⭐
Okay Ares is more my type than I thought he would be going into this and oh wow, he might be my favourite Raccoon boy yet! I could really relate to Eloise and the cute/slightly awkward romance was just wonderful. I will never not smile seeing a hot chocolate packet again *swoon* 🥰
Also, so not over the ending and waiting not-at-all patiently for book 3!! 🫣😁
May 2, 2023
Pulling the Goalie
Overall Score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat Level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Ares had to grow on me. Slowly, like a fungus. He seemed like he came right out of the f*** boy factory and I was so worried he was going to screw around with Eloise. And she doesn't deserve that. Eloise is broken and the last thing she needs is a player to break her some more. My favorite thing to see has been the character development that Ares has gone through for Eloise. I went from despising Ares to him being my favorite male lead of this series. It's a true talent to be able to redeem a character like that. Lasairiona better watch out because she just set the bar reaaallllly damn high for herself.
Overall Score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat Level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Ares had to grow on me. Slowly, like a fungus. He seemed like he came right out of the f*** boy factory and I was so worried he was going to screw around with Eloise. And she doesn't deserve that. Eloise is broken and the last thing she needs is a player to break her some more. My favorite thing to see has been the character development that Ares has gone through for Eloise. I went from despising Ares to him being my favorite male lead of this series. It's a true talent to be able to redeem a character like that. Lasairiona better watch out because she just set the bar reaaallllly damn high for herself.
May 5, 2023
Loved it......!!
I received an ARC copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Wow.... I absolutely loved Ares and Eloise story.
Been looking forward to reading the de la Peña brother's stories and wasn't disappointed, it was worth the wait!!
Awesome storyline, fantastic characters and absolutely loved the HEA.
I received an ARC copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Wow.... I absolutely loved Ares and Eloise story.
Been looking forward to reading the de la Peña brother's stories and wasn't disappointed, it was worth the wait!!
Awesome storyline, fantastic characters and absolutely loved the HEA.
May 7, 2023
Omg. I'm a complete goalie lover. I can only imagine a Spanish speaking goalie with a Jacobs ladder. I swooned the entire book
September 16, 2023
So the Cedar Rapid Racoons are back with book 2 and this time we are joining the youngest De La Pena sibling and Cedar Rapids Goaltender on his journey. The story of Ares and Eloise is told over the course of 35 Chapters as well as a prologue and Epilogue.
This story for me can be summed up as sexy, steamy and HOT. Yes that is suppose to be in capitals. This book left me with an almighty book hangover that lasted well over 24 hours. Ares and his dancing ways would not leave my mind alone.
Now Ares and Eloise are complete opposites, and this is very much an opposites attract book. Ares is the son of billionaire Alonso De La Pena, who loves hockey and his has the share of demons in the past. Oh did forget to mention that he is also a stripper! Whereas Eloise hates sports and is a good girl, who is also majorly an introvert.
From the moment this book started, I was addicted between the funny moments and the spicy moments. This book was all too easy to get stuck into. Not only that but it's also the type of book that stays in your mind when you are forced to put it down. Take my advice read on some solid time off where you get to do nothing!
Not only did I love the main characters in this book but we also got to see a little bit more of the dynamic between the De La Pena siblings. I will admit personally Ares, Artemis and Apollo are not my next book boyfriend, however I kind of want to have them as friends or siblings. The dynamic between these boys and their sister Athena is brilliant. I LOVED it. There were parts where the siblings were interacting and I had to go back and re read purely because the writing was genius!
So if you have read a book by Lasairiona in the past you know that she loves a good metaphor and this book is no exception. The metaphors will make you giggle and the funny moments will take you by surprise and leave you laughing out loud.
When it came to the epilogue you get a little sneak peak of book three in this series 'Crashing the Net' which is Ares brother Apollo's story. All I will say about this is why is October sooo far away. I would like this book now!
Overall I completely adored this book, just like I adore this author. The book is full of funny moments, spicy moments and moments that make you want to re read the section all over again. I highly recommend this book to all though don't be like me, read it on a weekend.
This story for me can be summed up as sexy, steamy and HOT. Yes that is suppose to be in capitals. This book left me with an almighty book hangover that lasted well over 24 hours. Ares and his dancing ways would not leave my mind alone.
Now Ares and Eloise are complete opposites, and this is very much an opposites attract book. Ares is the son of billionaire Alonso De La Pena, who loves hockey and his has the share of demons in the past. Oh did forget to mention that he is also a stripper! Whereas Eloise hates sports and is a good girl, who is also majorly an introvert.
From the moment this book started, I was addicted between the funny moments and the spicy moments. This book was all too easy to get stuck into. Not only that but it's also the type of book that stays in your mind when you are forced to put it down. Take my advice read on some solid time off where you get to do nothing!
Not only did I love the main characters in this book but we also got to see a little bit more of the dynamic between the De La Pena siblings. I will admit personally Ares, Artemis and Apollo are not my next book boyfriend, however I kind of want to have them as friends or siblings. The dynamic between these boys and their sister Athena is brilliant. I LOVED it. There were parts where the siblings were interacting and I had to go back and re read purely because the writing was genius!
So if you have read a book by Lasairiona in the past you know that she loves a good metaphor and this book is no exception. The metaphors will make you giggle and the funny moments will take you by surprise and leave you laughing out loud.
When it came to the epilogue you get a little sneak peak of book three in this series 'Crashing the Net' which is Ares brother Apollo's story. All I will say about this is why is October sooo far away. I would like this book now!
Overall I completely adored this book, just like I adore this author. The book is full of funny moments, spicy moments and moments that make you want to re read the section all over again. I highly recommend this book to all though don't be like me, read it on a weekend.
May 12, 2023
I can't express how much I love Ares de la Péna he may be my spirit animal. He's everything fun, reckless, spirited, full of love, loyalty, and protectiveness that is great in a character that is also a little on the eccentric side.
Because let's be real Ares is a little crazy in the best kind of way.
Eloise is also perfect in her own shy introverted way. And her withdrawn self needs every part of Ares extroverted crazy. They are perfectly balanced.
Ares brings out Eloise's very own brand of crazy and shows her just how beautiful her scars are inside and out.
Plus he loves his siblings, mom, Abuelita, friends and animals he already has a cat and a pig.
This story is the best.
I have voluntarily left this review.
Because let's be real Ares is a little crazy in the best kind of way.
Eloise is also perfect in her own shy introverted way. And her withdrawn self needs every part of Ares extroverted crazy. They are perfectly balanced.
Ares brings out Eloise's very own brand of crazy and shows her just how beautiful her scars are inside and out.
Plus he loves his siblings, mom, Abuelita, friends and animals he already has a cat and a pig.
This story is the best.
I have voluntarily left this review.
July 8, 2023
Holy Hell…. I freaking loved this book. Both Ares and Eloise have gone through so much. I literally could not put the book down- sooooooo good!!!
May 13, 2023
How can the two most opposites attract?
Eloise is a young woman who hides her scars behind her bright hair. She prefers nothing more than live in the shadows, without drawing any attention to herself. But that also means that she finds it difficult to make friends, and her anxiety after the accident that scarred her but also took her mother, only adds to her sense of loneliness. But there is one guy who sees her… Ares de la Peña is a hockey goalie with a reputation. His family comes with money, at a young age he already was an addict, he is a stripper and he is a bisexual playboy. So why is Eloise suddenly on his radar? And why can’t he get her out of his mind? But most important, what will it take for her to give him a chance and see the man behind all the show?
I’m taking this review in a different direction than what I am used too. Because I think I first have to get all the anger out of me before I can start professing my love for this story and the amazing author that Lasairiona is!
Because the end of this story made me SO furious! My dear Las, you don’t have to write such a cliff-hanger to make people want to read the next! Because we all love you and even if you would write crap, we would still read and adore it! So tell me, WHY DID YOU DO THAT?????
Okay, the anger is out of my system…
What a wonderful, heart – breaking, heart – warming, steamy, accepting story this was! Beside the ending, there wasn’t a bit I didn’t love!
There is Eloise, who has been through something terrible and is not only literally scarred by it, but she also lost her mother. And she is still having issues after the accident, pains that are inexplicable, but also her anxiety. But I also felt that somehow she didn’t only lose her mother in the accident, because even if her father does his best, I could sense the distance between them. The love is obviously there, but it’s clear that Eloise’s father is also still facing the demons of the accident.
I can only try to imagine how Eloise is feeling, with people looking more at her scars than at who is behind the scars. And it broke my heart to see how lonely she is at college. But I also was more than happy when she makes a new best friend, even if Tori made that decision for her!
Eloise is also a curious woman, which is made clear in several occasions. Even when she sees Ares doing the heated thing with another man, she isn’t disgusted by it. On the contrary, she is intrigued by it. And even if I didn’t have the same reaction as her, I could understand her reaction.
Ares… he must be the sweetest bad boy ever! He has his reputation and I loved it how he isn’t ashamed of all the things he has done or is still doing. Yes, he has made mistakes, and he has absolutely redeemed himself. But also, and that made me admire him, why should he be ashamed for being bisexual, or being a stripper? If that’s his cup of tea, let him live his life happily!
But I wasn’t prepared for him to be so gentle and kind, even if he hides it. The hot chocolate – thing made me melt! If only there would be someone doing that for me! And his protectiveness towards Eloise… what more can I say than ‘Oh Dear God!’.
Yes, absolutely there are several heated moments in this story. Yes, those heated sparks fly of the pages. And I have to admit, I had to use Google to see what his piercings are all about! 😊
In this story we have an absolute Alpha, but with Ares falling for Eloise we also see a vulnerability in him, he wants to protect Eloise, wants her happiness, even if that would mean that he would be left behind with a broken heart. We see a man that despite all his bravado is afraid to lose the one thing, the one person that he absolutely adores.
But we also have a lonely, closed woman, who slowly starts to open up. And seeing that change in Eloise, seeing her not hiding any longer, was just marvellous. She even finds the courage to fight for the man she loves. And she loves him for the man he is *now* and she doesn’t care about his past mistakes. Eloise understands on such a high level that everyone makes mistakes. But it’s the present that counts.
I also had a lot of fun of getting to know the de la Peña – family better. I have a girl – crush on Athena I think I would have the best of fun with the brothers and can I try somewhere Abuelita’s dishes? I found it hilarious how they all teased Ares by *finally* having a girlfriend. Yet they also see how serious (for once) he is with Eloise. But beside that, I loved how they accepted Eloise without prejudice and how quickly she became a real member of the de la Peña – family.
Before I started reading this book, I thought it would be filled with a lot of steamy and explicit moments. But I was surprised to see that this in fact is truly a sweet story, about opposites with each their own yet different baggage, find each other. They find each other, they accept each other, they see each other’s beauty, and they are willing to fight for a future together.
Now I am having a countdown to the next book, because I NEED MORE and I NEED IT NOW!!!
Eloise is a young woman who hides her scars behind her bright hair. She prefers nothing more than live in the shadows, without drawing any attention to herself. But that also means that she finds it difficult to make friends, and her anxiety after the accident that scarred her but also took her mother, only adds to her sense of loneliness. But there is one guy who sees her… Ares de la Peña is a hockey goalie with a reputation. His family comes with money, at a young age he already was an addict, he is a stripper and he is a bisexual playboy. So why is Eloise suddenly on his radar? And why can’t he get her out of his mind? But most important, what will it take for her to give him a chance and see the man behind all the show?
I’m taking this review in a different direction than what I am used too. Because I think I first have to get all the anger out of me before I can start professing my love for this story and the amazing author that Lasairiona is!
Because the end of this story made me SO furious! My dear Las, you don’t have to write such a cliff-hanger to make people want to read the next! Because we all love you and even if you would write crap, we would still read and adore it! So tell me, WHY DID YOU DO THAT?????
Okay, the anger is out of my system…
What a wonderful, heart – breaking, heart – warming, steamy, accepting story this was! Beside the ending, there wasn’t a bit I didn’t love!
There is Eloise, who has been through something terrible and is not only literally scarred by it, but she also lost her mother. And she is still having issues after the accident, pains that are inexplicable, but also her anxiety. But I also felt that somehow she didn’t only lose her mother in the accident, because even if her father does his best, I could sense the distance between them. The love is obviously there, but it’s clear that Eloise’s father is also still facing the demons of the accident.
I can only try to imagine how Eloise is feeling, with people looking more at her scars than at who is behind the scars. And it broke my heart to see how lonely she is at college. But I also was more than happy when she makes a new best friend, even if Tori made that decision for her!
Eloise is also a curious woman, which is made clear in several occasions. Even when she sees Ares doing the heated thing with another man, she isn’t disgusted by it. On the contrary, she is intrigued by it. And even if I didn’t have the same reaction as her, I could understand her reaction.
Ares… he must be the sweetest bad boy ever! He has his reputation and I loved it how he isn’t ashamed of all the things he has done or is still doing. Yes, he has made mistakes, and he has absolutely redeemed himself. But also, and that made me admire him, why should he be ashamed for being bisexual, or being a stripper? If that’s his cup of tea, let him live his life happily!
But I wasn’t prepared for him to be so gentle and kind, even if he hides it. The hot chocolate – thing made me melt! If only there would be someone doing that for me! And his protectiveness towards Eloise… what more can I say than ‘Oh Dear God!’.
Yes, absolutely there are several heated moments in this story. Yes, those heated sparks fly of the pages. And I have to admit, I had to use Google to see what his piercings are all about! 😊
In this story we have an absolute Alpha, but with Ares falling for Eloise we also see a vulnerability in him, he wants to protect Eloise, wants her happiness, even if that would mean that he would be left behind with a broken heart. We see a man that despite all his bravado is afraid to lose the one thing, the one person that he absolutely adores.
But we also have a lonely, closed woman, who slowly starts to open up. And seeing that change in Eloise, seeing her not hiding any longer, was just marvellous. She even finds the courage to fight for the man she loves. And she loves him for the man he is *now* and she doesn’t care about his past mistakes. Eloise understands on such a high level that everyone makes mistakes. But it’s the present that counts.
I also had a lot of fun of getting to know the de la Peña – family better. I have a girl – crush on Athena I think I would have the best of fun with the brothers and can I try somewhere Abuelita’s dishes? I found it hilarious how they all teased Ares by *finally* having a girlfriend. Yet they also see how serious (for once) he is with Eloise. But beside that, I loved how they accepted Eloise without prejudice and how quickly she became a real member of the de la Peña – family.
Before I started reading this book, I thought it would be filled with a lot of steamy and explicit moments. But I was surprised to see that this in fact is truly a sweet story, about opposites with each their own yet different baggage, find each other. They find each other, they accept each other, they see each other’s beauty, and they are willing to fight for a future together.
Now I am having a countdown to the next book, because I NEED MORE and I NEED IT NOW!!!
May 10, 2023
Well, I think this book just overtook my other favorite of Lasairiona's. I seriously could not stop reading it. It absolutely killed me to put it down so I could go to sleep the night i started it. Well, the jokes on you Lasairiona, I don't have to worry about that again because I finished it today (the next day), and now I want the rest of the series to binge on.
Eloise and Ares are everything I hoped for and SO MUCH MORE! These characters have such compelling and complex back stories that just made me fall in love with them.
Ares comes from an obscenely wealthy family and has gotten away with so many things. He's a recovering adict at 18 but has changed his ways for his first love, playing hockey. Even after everything he's gone through, he's missing one major thing in his life from his father. Acceptance. But there's so much more to Ares than his past. He wants to do good and help others, even if he doesn't know how yet. He's just like everyone else who has insecurities and just needs someone to be by his side, to be his equal, to encourage him, to love him unconditionally.
Eloise goes through a traumatic experience that changes her life forever, and in that, she loses so much. Her self-esteem is gone. She hides from people, even though she really wants to be around them. She is scared to be vulnerable because she might get hurt again. She just wants to be accepted for her and not pushed aside or looked at with pity.
Together, Eloise and Ares balance each other out, his darkness to her bright light. His love of hockey and her dislike of any kind of sportsball. But I tell you, their chemistry fly of the pages as subtlety as flames from a blow torch. It was so dang hot! Oh, and every time I read a scene with him being sweet, considerate, and so loving towards Eloise, he melted my heart more and more. I mean, he is totally swoon worthy, and I couldn't get enough. And that bonus epilogue?!? I don't think there's enough ice in the Arctic to cool me down. That was so dang spicy!
We get to know the rest of the de la Peña family a bit better in this book, too, and they're a handful. The way they just push their way in on one of Ares and Eloise's dates made me laugh out loud so hard. They are all such interesting characters, and I can't wait to read all of their stories. Athena seems like she will be an interesting one to get to know.
Well, Lasairiona has done it again. Another absolutely phenomenal book to add to all of the other phenomenal books she's written. If you couldn't figure it out from my review, I wish I could give this book more than 5 ⭐️'s because it deserves it. You really really need this book in your life! Go grab it. You won't be sorry.
Eloise and Ares are everything I hoped for and SO MUCH MORE! These characters have such compelling and complex back stories that just made me fall in love with them.
Ares comes from an obscenely wealthy family and has gotten away with so many things. He's a recovering adict at 18 but has changed his ways for his first love, playing hockey. Even after everything he's gone through, he's missing one major thing in his life from his father. Acceptance. But there's so much more to Ares than his past. He wants to do good and help others, even if he doesn't know how yet. He's just like everyone else who has insecurities and just needs someone to be by his side, to be his equal, to encourage him, to love him unconditionally.
Eloise goes through a traumatic experience that changes her life forever, and in that, she loses so much. Her self-esteem is gone. She hides from people, even though she really wants to be around them. She is scared to be vulnerable because she might get hurt again. She just wants to be accepted for her and not pushed aside or looked at with pity.
Together, Eloise and Ares balance each other out, his darkness to her bright light. His love of hockey and her dislike of any kind of sportsball. But I tell you, their chemistry fly of the pages as subtlety as flames from a blow torch. It was so dang hot! Oh, and every time I read a scene with him being sweet, considerate, and so loving towards Eloise, he melted my heart more and more. I mean, he is totally swoon worthy, and I couldn't get enough. And that bonus epilogue?!? I don't think there's enough ice in the Arctic to cool me down. That was so dang spicy!
We get to know the rest of the de la Peña family a bit better in this book, too, and they're a handful. The way they just push their way in on one of Ares and Eloise's dates made me laugh out loud so hard. They are all such interesting characters, and I can't wait to read all of their stories. Athena seems like she will be an interesting one to get to know.
Well, Lasairiona has done it again. Another absolutely phenomenal book to add to all of the other phenomenal books she's written. If you couldn't figure it out from my review, I wish I could give this book more than 5 ⭐️'s because it deserves it. You really really need this book in your life! Go grab it. You won't be sorry.
May 10, 2023
Wow! This story lands with a punch!
Eloise, the female lead, has spent years hiding as best she can since her mother died in a car accident and she incurred facial scarring. Ares, the male lead, is a recovering addict (at the age of eighteen), a focused hockey player, and has spent years in the spotlight. When they meet, Eloise doesn’t even realise, but she catches Ares’ attention and he pursues her. Eloise struggles with serious anxiety and Ares has his own struggles but the attraction is real and the care they have for each other intense.
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and started fast and kept going. I adored so much about this story. Both lead characters have significant past baggage that they’re carrying, which means that they both understand the importance and sincerity of the feelings they have for each other. I enjoyed the personality and thought process of Ares. I appreciated his care for women and his explicit consent focus. I enjoyed Eloise’s gradual personal development and her care for others. I enjoyed their relationship development. I enjoyed their erotic and emotionally intense intimate scenes and the plot development it incorporated. I enjoyed Ares’ playfulness and the contrast against other aspects of his personality. I adored the secondary characters and their genuine impact on the relationship of the lead characters. I’m looking forward to the next one as well!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Eloise, the female lead, has spent years hiding as best she can since her mother died in a car accident and she incurred facial scarring. Ares, the male lead, is a recovering addict (at the age of eighteen), a focused hockey player, and has spent years in the spotlight. When they meet, Eloise doesn’t even realise, but she catches Ares’ attention and he pursues her. Eloise struggles with serious anxiety and Ares has his own struggles but the attraction is real and the care they have for each other intense.
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and started fast and kept going. I adored so much about this story. Both lead characters have significant past baggage that they’re carrying, which means that they both understand the importance and sincerity of the feelings they have for each other. I enjoyed the personality and thought process of Ares. I appreciated his care for women and his explicit consent focus. I enjoyed Eloise’s gradual personal development and her care for others. I enjoyed their relationship development. I enjoyed their erotic and emotionally intense intimate scenes and the plot development it incorporated. I enjoyed Ares’ playfulness and the contrast against other aspects of his personality. I adored the secondary characters and their genuine impact on the relationship of the lead characters. I’m looking forward to the next one as well!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
May 12, 2023
Pulling the Goalie (ARC review)
Firstly, a big thank you to the author and her team for sending me a review copy of this book. I seriously cannot get enough of Lasairiona McMaster’s hockey romances, and this one may just be one of my favourites.
Ares and Eloise’s love story is just like them; a little wild, a little messy, a little complicated, but with so much depth, heart and joy.
Eloise’s journey in this book is incredible. Watching her confidence grow the more time she spent with Ares, and learning to stand up for herself and believe in herself, felt so genuine, and was at times really moving. I loved that she hid herself less, and became so much more open and receptive to friendship and love. The way Ares’ family adopted her in and made her feel like she belonged was so beautiful.
And then we have Ares. Dear God the man is dreamy! I love that we saw so many sides to him. He had so much depth as a character. As with all of McMaster’s heroes, he had a lot of swagger and charm, but also showed so much vulnerability and sensitivity. He was open with Eloise about his past and his struggles, and so fiercely supportive and loving with her. And then of course, there’s that dirty mouth! Add in that Spanish I just about turned into a puddle any time he made an appearance.
I really loved the relationship between all the de la Peña siblings- it felt very realistic the way they teased each other mercilessly, but were also one another‘a biggest supporters. I look forward to seeing more of them in future books!
Firstly, a big thank you to the author and her team for sending me a review copy of this book. I seriously cannot get enough of Lasairiona McMaster’s hockey romances, and this one may just be one of my favourites.
Ares and Eloise’s love story is just like them; a little wild, a little messy, a little complicated, but with so much depth, heart and joy.
Eloise’s journey in this book is incredible. Watching her confidence grow the more time she spent with Ares, and learning to stand up for herself and believe in herself, felt so genuine, and was at times really moving. I loved that she hid herself less, and became so much more open and receptive to friendship and love. The way Ares’ family adopted her in and made her feel like she belonged was so beautiful.
And then we have Ares. Dear God the man is dreamy! I love that we saw so many sides to him. He had so much depth as a character. As with all of McMaster’s heroes, he had a lot of swagger and charm, but also showed so much vulnerability and sensitivity. He was open with Eloise about his past and his struggles, and so fiercely supportive and loving with her. And then of course, there’s that dirty mouth! Add in that Spanish I just about turned into a puddle any time he made an appearance.
I really loved the relationship between all the de la Peña siblings- it felt very realistic the way they teased each other mercilessly, but were also one another‘a biggest supporters. I look forward to seeing more of them in future books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2023
First of all….THAT ENDING 😱😱 Give me the next book right now!
I really enjoyed Ares & Eloise story! They both had their own demons to work on and at no point was them getting together implied to be “the solution to all problems” which I loved to see. They both had to work on their issues and support each other to help the other overcome them.
I absolutely ADORED the open communication in this book about all things and I think it’s so nice and refreshing to see, especially in a college aged romance. The way consent was covered was so good to see! Setting such a good example and I hope people can take bits away from it.
Again on the lines of openness I think it was great to see the representation of a Bi male character getting exclusively with a female character and them having a discussion about what that would mean in terms of their future sex life. I 10/10 approve the openness & communication.
Boy falls first and honestly I was HERE FOR IT. Every time Ares said My Girl 🫠🫠🫠
I’m excited to see the next book because it will continue Eloise & Ares story in a way so it does feel like there’s more for these characters to be discovered.
For me I think I would have liked to have seen more scenes between Ares & Eloise just being together and being coupley without any major spanners in the work.
Tropes:
Hockey goalie
Good girl/ bad boy
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range & Rep:
New adult romance
LGBTQ+ rep
TWs:
Death of a parent from a car accident
Non-explicit discussion of addiction (drugs & alcohol)
I really enjoyed Ares & Eloise story! They both had their own demons to work on and at no point was them getting together implied to be “the solution to all problems” which I loved to see. They both had to work on their issues and support each other to help the other overcome them.
I absolutely ADORED the open communication in this book about all things and I think it’s so nice and refreshing to see, especially in a college aged romance. The way consent was covered was so good to see! Setting such a good example and I hope people can take bits away from it.
Again on the lines of openness I think it was great to see the representation of a Bi male character getting exclusively with a female character and them having a discussion about what that would mean in terms of their future sex life. I 10/10 approve the openness & communication.
Boy falls first and honestly I was HERE FOR IT. Every time Ares said My Girl 🫠🫠🫠
I’m excited to see the next book because it will continue Eloise & Ares story in a way so it does feel like there’s more for these characters to be discovered.
For me I think I would have liked to have seen more scenes between Ares & Eloise just being together and being coupley without any major spanners in the work.
Tropes:
Hockey goalie
Good girl/ bad boy
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range & Rep:
New adult romance
LGBTQ+ rep
TWs:
Death of a parent from a car accident
Non-explicit discussion of addiction (drugs & alcohol)
May 3, 2023
Received an ARC from the talented @queenoffirelas for the new book on the Cedar Raccoons hockey books!
Ares is doing his best to be good, but as a recovering addict and resident bad boy, he doesn’t always let people see the real him. He lives for hockey and dancing and despite being rich, works as a stripper because it’s fun and the moment he meets quiet Eloise, he wants to do whatever he can to be more. Eloise is shy, introverted, and hiding physical and emotional scars after a horrific car accident took her mom a few years ago. When a secret admirer starts leaving hot chocolate packets, she’s intrigued and confused. Ares isn’t quite the bad boy he’s portrayed to be.
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Love the hockey world McMaster has created and the family behind the infamous delicious restaurant in Two for Tacos (now I want a burrito)
2) Loved how adorable Ares and Eloise were in their awkwardness and
3) The gift basket left outside of the hotel room made me laugh out loud! 🤣🤣
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #hockeyromance #cedarrapidsraccoons #pullingthegoalie #lasairionamcmaster @queenoffirelas
PS — Not over the ending! Come on book 3!
Release Date: 11 May 2023.
Ares is doing his best to be good, but as a recovering addict and resident bad boy, he doesn’t always let people see the real him. He lives for hockey and dancing and despite being rich, works as a stripper because it’s fun and the moment he meets quiet Eloise, he wants to do whatever he can to be more. Eloise is shy, introverted, and hiding physical and emotional scars after a horrific car accident took her mom a few years ago. When a secret admirer starts leaving hot chocolate packets, she’s intrigued and confused. Ares isn’t quite the bad boy he’s portrayed to be.
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Love the hockey world McMaster has created and the family behind the infamous delicious restaurant in Two for Tacos (now I want a burrito)
2) Loved how adorable Ares and Eloise were in their awkwardness and
3) The gift basket left outside of the hotel room made me laugh out loud! 🤣🤣
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #hockeyromance #cedarrapidsraccoons #pullingthegoalie #lasairionamcmaster @queenoffirelas
PS — Not over the ending! Come on book 3!
Release Date: 11 May 2023.
May 6, 2023
“I’m afraid this will destroy me.”
“It wouldn’t be love if it didn’t.”
💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
The ending was unfair, okay? I am attached, completely in love with the family now, HOW CAN YOU NOT TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED???!!!!
(not a cliffhanger, just a small tragic sneak peak into the next book)
Anyways,
This book is all about the relationship between Ares and Eloise and how both of them encourage the other to become better, to become confident and to embrace who they individually are.
Ares is our hotshot bi playboy who's a stipper, super rich and a college hockey player. Total bombshell package, i mean, JUST SEE THE COVER, FUCKKKKKK😩🔥 (i just might have to get a paperback IF this book gets released in India just to stare at the cover)
Meanwhile, Eloise is our live in the shadows, introvert girl with bright pink hair and insecurities because of the scars on her face.
They've both seem trauma but something just clicks. This book is soft and fun and the same time is deep and emotional. Humour, romance, steam and hockey are essentials of this book. There's no third act breakup or any unnecessary drama at all. Everything's to the point and simple.
Super fun to read, there's a pet pig and cat and they cockblock our couple as well🤣
I wished we got some more insights about Mathias and Thiago l but i also understand that with 3 more books about the siblings, eventually that mystery will also be solved....so now you've got me hooked😤
“It wouldn’t be love if it didn’t.”
💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
The ending was unfair, okay? I am attached, completely in love with the family now, HOW CAN YOU NOT TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED???!!!!
(not a cliffhanger, just a small tragic sneak peak into the next book)
Anyways,
This book is all about the relationship between Ares and Eloise and how both of them encourage the other to become better, to become confident and to embrace who they individually are.
Ares is our hotshot bi playboy who's a stipper, super rich and a college hockey player. Total bombshell package, i mean, JUST SEE THE COVER, FUCKKKKKK😩🔥 (i just might have to get a paperback IF this book gets released in India just to stare at the cover)
Meanwhile, Eloise is our live in the shadows, introvert girl with bright pink hair and insecurities because of the scars on her face.
They've both seem trauma but something just clicks. This book is soft and fun and the same time is deep and emotional. Humour, romance, steam and hockey are essentials of this book. There's no third act breakup or any unnecessary drama at all. Everything's to the point and simple.
Super fun to read, there's a pet pig and cat and they cockblock our couple as well🤣
I wished we got some more insights about Mathias and Thiago l but i also understand that with 3 more books about the siblings, eventually that mystery will also be solved....so now you've got me hooked😤
May 11, 2023
Between NHL Playoff 🏒 games head to the Trash Can to get introduced to the Cedar Rapids Racoons! @queenoffirelas will have you begging for more with her most recent release, #PullingTheGoalie, book two in the #CedarRapidsRacoonsHockeySeries.
Ares de la Pena is a bad boy with a heart of gold. All too often authors forget that interests and activities aren't the only thing that make up someone's personality and MO. McMaster doesn't have that problem! A reforming alcoholic and addict, Ares pursues a degrees dedicated to helping the cause of women and those whom injustice has been perpetrated against, while playing college hockey, and moonlighting as a stripper. These dynamic facets of being make Ares one of my favourite McMaster characters.
And Eloise isn't far behind!
Eloise has had a rough go, and hides both her figurative, and literal, scars behind her pink hair. This pixie is a fierce friend and advocate once you have her on your side.
The duo are charming together. Full of love, tenderness, and steam🔥! I could not put down Pulling the Goalie because I just had to know what was going to happen with them next!
McMaster is one of my favourite romance authors, and her authorship of hockey series is just cherry on top! 🍒
Check out the Cedar Rapids Racoons and McMaster's other series #TheSnowPiratesHockeySeries now! Get in and get hooked!
Ares de la Pena is a bad boy with a heart of gold. All too often authors forget that interests and activities aren't the only thing that make up someone's personality and MO. McMaster doesn't have that problem! A reforming alcoholic and addict, Ares pursues a degrees dedicated to helping the cause of women and those whom injustice has been perpetrated against, while playing college hockey, and moonlighting as a stripper. These dynamic facets of being make Ares one of my favourite McMaster characters.
And Eloise isn't far behind!
Eloise has had a rough go, and hides both her figurative, and literal, scars behind her pink hair. This pixie is a fierce friend and advocate once you have her on your side.
The duo are charming together. Full of love, tenderness, and steam🔥! I could not put down Pulling the Goalie because I just had to know what was going to happen with them next!
McMaster is one of my favourite romance authors, and her authorship of hockey series is just cherry on top! 🍒
Check out the Cedar Rapids Racoons and McMaster's other series #TheSnowPiratesHockeySeries now! Get in and get hooked!
June 5, 2023
Ooooh, too much of a good thing! But then, the ending, not enough - I need book 3 RN (those pesky cliffhangers 😖).
Ms McMaster has proven to be a queen of emotional journeys, my heart is still recovering.
As you can probably guess, this one is an emotional roller coaster, heartbreaking at times, full of angst and drama, difficult histories, passion, banter and romance.
Ares and Eloise are so different yet they compliment each other so completely.
She’s shy and reclusive, a good girl but with a quick wit. Ares, drew her out and she grew and evolved - it was beautiful.
Ares is a new favourite book boyfriend, such a complex young man with a hard road to redemption to travel. The popular, life of the party type with hidden vulnerabilities and a lot of questions he has to answer for himself.
When Ares notices Eloise the attraction is instant and he’s quickly obsessed and their journey begins.
Sweet, a little steamy, some humour, tons of emotion and character growth and a beautiful HEA for Ares and Eloise.
(That cliffhanger I mentioned is from the lead-in to book 3 which I cannot wait to read.)
I received an ARC from Wordsmith Publicity and this is my honest review.
Ms McMaster has proven to be a queen of emotional journeys, my heart is still recovering.
As you can probably guess, this one is an emotional roller coaster, heartbreaking at times, full of angst and drama, difficult histories, passion, banter and romance.
Ares and Eloise are so different yet they compliment each other so completely.
She’s shy and reclusive, a good girl but with a quick wit. Ares, drew her out and she grew and evolved - it was beautiful.
Ares is a new favourite book boyfriend, such a complex young man with a hard road to redemption to travel. The popular, life of the party type with hidden vulnerabilities and a lot of questions he has to answer for himself.
When Ares notices Eloise the attraction is instant and he’s quickly obsessed and their journey begins.
Sweet, a little steamy, some humour, tons of emotion and character growth and a beautiful HEA for Ares and Eloise.
(That cliffhanger I mentioned is from the lead-in to book 3 which I cannot wait to read.)
I received an ARC from Wordsmith Publicity and this is my honest review.
May 14, 2023
Pulling The Goalie is Lasairiona McMaster’s spiciest book yet! The seductive, reformed playboy hockey player and the fascinating, shy bookworm are bewitching from page one. This is the second book I’ve read recently in which college athletes advocate for consent and I am here for it! Ares & Eloise have scorching hot chemistry. Each with their own insecurities, their mature, level-headed communication was admirable. I LOVED Ares; he’s the campus lothario who lets his hidden romantic side shine after he meets the pink-haired pixie. Eloise’s journey to self-acceptance was very moving. The way Ares was immediately bewitched by her and dove in as her protector, especially from her self deprication and inner mean girl voice was heartwarming. Ares’ siblings are amazing, I enjoyed the unique personalities and perspectives of each ancillary character. Lasairiona’s use of bilingual dialogue and cultural inclusion enhanced the heart of this love story and made it soar. I love a pseudo anti-hero; the cocky, recovering addict, playboy hockey player was fascinating from the start. I mean, who doesn’t love a dirty-mouthed MMC with a sparkle peen?! I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series!
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May 12, 2023I have to say, I love when I'm wrong. Las proved me wrong. I read the first few chapters and was like, "She wouldn't do this to me," and she didn't LOL. Made it even better.
Eloise, oh, what a position to be in for her! My heart went out for all she endured. Her journey through the story was enjoyable to read about. What pulled at my heart the most was Ares's family and the hockey team coming together and enveloping her in the fold.
Ares was a multidimensional character. He wasn't what everyone assumed. I felt like only Eloise believed the truth about him. She saw the layers and understood them.
I loved how the story ended. For me, these kids are freshman, and the ending Las gave was perfect for their age and place in life.
The plot was well thought out, with some Easter eggs for the next one. Characters made me laugh, go aww, and cheer them on.
Lasairiona has worked her way into my heart as a reader.
Eloise, oh, what a position to be in for her! My heart went out for all she endured. Her journey through the story was enjoyable to read about. What pulled at my heart the most was Ares's family and the hockey team coming together and enveloping her in the fold.
Ares was a multidimensional character. He wasn't what everyone assumed. I felt like only Eloise believed the truth about him. She saw the layers and understood them.
I loved how the story ended. For me, these kids are freshman, and the ending Las gave was perfect for their age and place in life.
The plot was well thought out, with some Easter eggs for the next one. Characters made me laugh, go aww, and cheer them on.
Lasairiona has worked her way into my heart as a reader.
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